Mercedes-Benz E-Class and E-Class AMG: Why Won't My Sunroof Open?

If the sunroof in your Mercedes-Benz E-Class isn't working, the cause might be easier to fix than you think. Follow these instructions to get your sunroof working again.

By Richard Bowen - May 7, 2015

This article applies to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and E-Class AMG w211 (2002-2009).

If the sunroof in your Mercedes-Benz E-Class won't budge when you try to open it, the problem may be small and simple. The solution may require some cleaning and lubricating, or it may require a quick replacement procedure. Either way, it is easy to do yourself. Follow the steps below to diagnose your w211's sunroof issue, and get it working again.

Materials Needed

Genuine Mercedes-Benz sunroof lubricant
Vacuum or can of compressed air
Small brush and clean rag
Replacement sunroof motor (if necessary)
Trim removal tool (if necessary)
Ratchet, extension, and metric socket set
Phillips screwdriver

Step 1 – Reset the sunroof

If the car has been turned off while the sunroof is closing, it may need to be properly reset.

Press the button that closes the sunroof, and hold it for five seconds.
Press the button that opens the sunroof, and hold it for five seconds.
Try to close the sunroof again for an additional five seconds.
Try to open the sunroof for five last seconds.
The sunroof should now be reset.

If the sunroof still does not open after it has been reset, move on to the following step.

Step 2 – Clean and lubricate the rails

A collection of dirt and debris in the rails may prevent the sunroof from sliding open. Use a vacuum or can of compressed air to clear out dirt from the sunroof guide rails. After they have been cleaned, add a moderate amount of lubricant to a small brush and run it across the rails. Wipe off any excess lubricant.

Figure 2. Apply lubricant along the sunroof track.

Pro Tip

Check the dealership for genuine Mercedes-Benz sunroof lubricant, which costs around $10. If unable to find it, it is recommended using aftermarket lubricants such as lithium grease, synthetic grease, or liquid Teflon.

If the sunroof does not open after the rails have been well cleaned and lubricated, move on to the following step.

Step 3 – Re-position the guide rails

The sunroof is guided by rails, which may be out of position. These rails may be causing resistance for the sunroof.

Look to the front corners of the sunroof openings, and locate the guide rails.
Make sure the grooves of each guide rail are leveled to one another, toward the center of the car.
Re-position the rails with your hands if they are angled incorrectly.

If the guide rails have been re-positioned and the sunroof is still not moving, move on to the following step.

Step 4 – Replace the motor

If you hear a grinding sound or no sound at all when trying to operate the sunroof, the motor may be damaged. A replacement sunroof motor costs between $40 and $250. Follow these steps to install the new one.

Disconnect the negative lead (black) of the battery terminal.
Manually slide the sunroof approximately two-thirds of the way open.
With a trim removal tool, unfasten the expansion snaps and pull the interior headliner panel out.

Figure 3. Remove the expansion snaps.
Figure 4. Remove the headliner panel.

Manually close the sunroof, and remove the nuts that fasten the steel sunroof panel to the carrier bracket. Make sure not to remove the Allen bolts from each sunroof bracket.
Remove the sunroof from the top of the vehicle.
Pull out the leak water tray located on the rear side of the sunroof opening.

Figure 5. Remove nuts securing the sunroof panel.
Figure 6. Remove the leak water tray.

Slide the carrier bracket completely back.
Remove the Phillips screws from the stainless steel slide rails.
Unfasten the Phillips screws that attach the sunroof motor to the frame.
Pull down the motor, and disengage the drive cables.
Re-install the sunroof, and slide it in the closed position before installation of the new motor.
Install the replacement motor in reverse order to the steps above.